Former Shoebury Hospital in Southend on fire as crews tackle blaze

Flames from the old Shoebury Hospital site can be seen from nearby residential streets (Image: Martin Harvey)

Emergency services have rushed to Southend on Wednesday afternoon (August 22) after an old Essex hospital went up in flames.

Seven fire crews, including Southend, Leigh, Hawkwell, Rochford, Corringham and Chelmsford, are currently at the scene of the blaze in Ness Road, Shoeburyness, where the former Shoebury Hospital is on fire.

It is understood that Essex County Fire and Rescue Service were contacted at around 4.30pm.

Essex County Fire and Rescue are at the scene (Image: Martin Harvey)

Upon arrival, firefighters reported that the roof was 30% alight and they quickly gained access to the derelict building and began tackling the fire.

Pictures from the area have been posted on social media showing large flames emerging from the building, while black smoke can be seen in the skies from nearby residential streets.

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The former NHS hospital building has stood unused and abandoned every since it closed its doors.

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